In reply refer tor NAVY DEPARTMENT JCC/181 Files AlL Serial: 097 Subject: JOINT CROSSRAODS COMMITTEE Washington 25, L.C. 4 June 1947 Scientific hesurvey of Bikini ewe meee ee wee ee em meee te ee eee tee et the processes involved in accumulation and transfer of these materials by orgenisms it will be essential to have the ser~ vices of savers] competent radio chemists on the expedition. The radiochemical investigations snoula be undertaken under the leadership of scientists competent to deal both with the chemistry of radioective fission products and with problems of plent nutrition end soil chemistry. Discussions with leaders in these various fields heve show tact such a combination of acientific abilities is very rare. From these discussions it is evident that the outstanding specialists in problems ot this type are Drs. RK. L. Overstreet and Louis Jacobson of the College of Agriculiyre of the University of California. Dr. Overstreet participated in lust sumzer's tests at Bikini and contributed results of major importance. Accordingtly, the Secretary of the Navy has rejuested Presldent Sproul of the University of Galirormmia to authorize Drs. Overstreet and Jacobson to take oart in the expedition. It would be very helpful if the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission would endorse this reyuest from the Sec— retary of the Navy; a proposed druft of a letter for Mr. Lilienthel's signature is enclosed. 6. IyvDrs. Overstreet and Jacobson can be made available by the University of California it is belleved that financial arrengements for thelr services and procurenent of necessary eguipment could be most expeditiously hendled thru the Atomic Energy Commission contract with the Radiation Laboratory of the University of California. 7. Estimates of the magnitude of the problems involved indicate that approximately four radio chemists in addition to Professors Overstreet end Jacobson will be required at Bikini. The cooperation of the Commission is requested in procuring the services of these scientists | and ecuipment for their use from laboratcries under its cognizance. If this reyuest is agreeuble to the Commission it is proposed that detailed arrungements.be made directly between representatives of the Commission end the Joint Crossroads Committee Project Officer, Cuptain C. L. Engleman, USN, or his representatives. Captuin inglemen's office is in Room 13-2038 of the Navy Department; his telephone extension is 3597. , /s/ W. S. PARSONS. Chairman